3)What is the best way to handle the cash buyer backing out of deal while it is in escrow to protect myself from any type of law suit of any sort?

I'd very much like some sort of financial gain from the property being that it has been family owned for several decades and in my possession for a few years.

The is also the Ohio heritage home program available in most of NE Ohio, which will do free color consultations / advice on maintenance / curb appeal, that sort of thing. 

Yes it is sort of baptism by fire, but you will see right away if this business is for you when you are living with your tenants.

What sort of zoning paperwork would be required on my part to make that a "2 unit" property down the road, assuming it's not just an airbnb gig?

It's easier to hide your trail of dead bodies.

AND she (sort of) paid on time.You want to lose good tenants?

I appreciate the input and hopefully I will be able to get this sorted out soon.

I don't know.But that's the sort of thing you MUST research.

I live in Missouri and the "dream" is to hold an active license for at least a year, become a broker, and expand from there which sort-a-kinda explains why I'm wanting to learn and get experience with as many real estate related things as I can right now.